Cava-Tzu

The Cava-Tzu dog is a breed that was produced by crossing the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Shih-Tzu dogs. These are dogs that have a moderate to dense coat and with a look very similar to the shih-tzu. Known for their funny attitude and cute looks, the small-sized cava tzu has a round face, round, dark, button-like eyes, a black, glossy nose, and with a pair of ears hanging loose almost reaching their neck. They retain their cute, teddy-look even at old age. Being a loyal, affectionate dog, they make a wonderful companion, a great foot-warmer, and an entertaining family dog.

Video: Cava-Tzu Puppy Playing

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Temperament and Behavior

The cava-tzu is a very people-oriented, modest and loving dog that would always be willing to please you just for the sake of your love and attention. They are playful and enjoy spending time with kids. They are equally good with children, other pets and are also comfortable with strangers, and can get along well with almost everyone, in general, and are even fit for apartments.

They love to have fun, and are vivacious, bubbly and jolly, and especially enjoy playing ball games. These dogs are basically an athletic breed and would chase anything that you would throw for them, and are good jumpers. These little ones would cherish the company of all its family members, but they would especially feel happy when they are among active people. They are very good jumpers. For this reason, do keep an eye on them when they are playing with very young children, since they would normally start to jump when excited.

Cava Tzus are trusting and companionable, and would make good companions especially to elderly people or those who are living alone, or have a small family. However, these dogs get tired easily, and both the puppies and the adults love to take rest and sleep for hours soon after playing or any physical activities.

Care

Considering its energetic nature versus small size, we can infer that the cava-tzu needs only a little amount of daily exercise because most of its need for regular exercise is met with their playfulness and other indoor games all day. But do take them out for a walk or jog, because, without this, your dog might get bored and will start spending time sleeping idly for hours, or else would easily get restless. This might very easily lead to developing destructive behaviors.

Also, let your dog play without a leash for some time every day. This should work best if you have a safe, enclosed space yourself for it to run around and play, or may be in some dog park. You can also take part in playing with your dog. After all, your dog loves your company, especially if it finds you energetic.

This canid doesn’t require much maintenance. Shih Tzu breed dogs have what is called a double coat. Brushing their coat at least twice a week sounds fair enough. But if you would skip brushing it for a long time, their long, flowing and smooth hair would tend to get small knots. If these shedded hairs are left unattended, they tend to pull on your pet’s skin, causing unhappiness due to discomfort and pain.

You must also trim their hair once in 2 or 3 months. If you think you are not an expert in trimming, professional hands are recommended. Bathe them fortnightly using a hypoallergenic shampoo, since your pet has a very sensitive skin. Remember, a good grooming has no alternative, and only a hygienic, well-groomed skin and coat would keep your dog healthy and beautiful for years to come.

Just like most crossbreeds are not vulnerable to breed-specific dog diseases and ailments because of their large gene pool, the cavatzu too is no exception. However, they are not immune to generic diseases common to all breeds of dogs viz. dysplasia, allergies, periodontal diseases, etc. Genetic disorders too can’t be ruled out. Before adoption, get thorough information about its parents’ health history from your breeder. Do not also skip taking them to the vet from time to time for routine checkups.

Training

The cava-tzus are born intelligent, and it wouldn’t take much effort for you to teach them new things. However, begin your training sessions right from the time when the puppies are adopted and brought home from the breeders or rescues. Normal puppy training like potty training (housebreaking), crate training, obedience training, etc. must be considered first. Because, at times, they display highly energetic behaviors, teach your little dog them to mingle and socialize with other pets, your neighbors and children.

Praise your puppy, give them treats, whenever it shows sign of success during training. Never be rude or scold it unnecessarily. It is always advisable to begin everyday training with all patience. However, you should be a firm trainer, especially when it comes to teaching your puppy of hierarchy, or who the real leader of its doggie team is. Alternately, you can always hire or consult professional trainers if you would like.

Diet/Feeding

Because the size (height and weight) of these dogs is mostly the same as their shitzu parents, you can opt for the same diet-routine and quantity of food as the shihtzus would need. But stick to high-quality food that would provide you pet with the apt level of nutrition, especially during its growing years.

I live in the Twin Cities and am looking for a Cava-Tzu puppy for a cousin that lives 230 miles from here. Is there anyone near/in the Cities that has a puppy? Would like their email or phone number or website.

Hi I am the proud owner of two Cava-Tzu pups and would love to share their unique photos on this platform as my pups have taken on the characteristics of each parent creating a unique litter. With brother and sister totally different. One is more Cav and the other more Tzu.

I have only had a Shih Tzu that I had for 14 years minus 1 month and had to put him down. I truly was heartbroken but now am ready to get another dog. My groomer recommended a Cava-Tzu. I would be interested in some pics.

Where CAN i FIND ONE OF THESE BEAUTIUL DOGS – i JUST LOST MINE TO KIDNEY FAILURE, AND AM SO LOST SHE WAS 14 1/2 SHE WAS BORN DEFORMED with clep lip and soft pallet, they told me she wouldnt live a year but she fooled them. She was my best friend eer she was my baby girl. I so need to find one that looks like her. cAN i SSEND YOU a picture of her so I can get one that looks like her. Pleaase let me know